Geoff Bennett:
In the day's other headlines: New landslides triggered by heavy rain in Eastern Congo have killed at least 20 more people.
Several towns across the country have turned into thick piles of mud and debris. Officials say more than 60 people total have died from flooding and landslides this week alone. Observers partially blame the deaths on construction of houses in unauthorized areas.
Here at home, forecasters are warning of more high tide and dangerous surf conditions tomorrow in California. The National Weather Service predicts strong winds and up to two inches of rain in some coastal areas. High tides yesterday caused extensive damage. This rogue wave in Ventura, California, sent eight people to the hospital and flooded streets.
Ohio's Republican Governor Mike DeWine has vetoed a measure that would have banned gender-affirming care for minors and barred transgender athletes from taking part in girls sports. DeWine said decisions about transgender health care should be made by parents and doctors, not by the state. Republican lawmakers hold a supermajority in the state's legislature and can override his veto.
And on Wall Street, stocks gave up more ground on this final trading day of the year. The Dow Jones industrial average lost 20 points to close at 37689. The Nasdaq fell 84 points. The S&P 500 shed 13.
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